On my husband's recommendation, I downloaded Google SketchUp (free). Its a 3D modeling program that he's using for his wood working. I used it to layout my next quilt. In about an hours worth of time I drew the attached picture. The next time it should take less. The interface is not completly intuitive but its not bad either. You can also use it to help calculate the amount of fabric you need as it will tell you the area of your various shapes.

On my husband's recommendation, I downloaded Google SketchUp (free). Its a 3D modeling program that he's using for his wood working. I used it to layout my next quilt. In about an hours worth of time I drew the attached picture. The next time it should take less. The interface is not completly intuitive but its not bad either. You can also use it to help calculate the amount of fabric you need as it will tell you the area of your various shapes.

I can't wait to get started!

Recently a few of us met with one of the main people who hang the quilt shows in the galleries at the International Quilt Study Center and Museum in Lincoln Nebraska. We had heard a talk on "behind the scenes" and then stayed to ask questions, specific to a Staff Quilt Show we are doing. He said that they use Google SketchUp to decide how to hang their shows as it can give you a real virtual layout, in more than one perspective of how it will look. This may be a great tool to use if redoing a studio!